Working across asset sectors with both private and public partners and clients, Clare has a strong track record of facilitating and structuring property transactions as well as extensive project delivery experience. After graduating in building services engineering and several years’ consultancy experience as a design engineer, Clare went on to become a construction manager with Bovis before joining the Lend Lease property development team in 1996 on large mixed-use and retail projects. She joined Explore Investments (Laing O’Rourke’s property investment and development arm) in 2005, operating at a senior level in both project and strategic business roles, working with and setting up a variety of project and funding structures – including as a director of various PFI project companies in which Laing O’Rourke was an equity investor for the delivery and operation of schools and hospitals.
As Head of Property Development Portfolio, Clare reported directly to the Group CFO and had full responsibility for the Laing O’Rourke property development portfolio in the UK and Ireland. She led a team of property professionals to manage the operational requirements of the portfolio, deliver asset enhancement projects, and seek and deliver best value disposal opportunities – appointing and coordinating property advisors, design consultants and firms of solicitors to work on a variety of projects and transactions.
Working with the Office of CEO and as Sector Specialist for Residential, Education, Science & Research, Clare is now responsible for setting the UK strategy and business development plan to secure opportunities in the residential and education sectors which are aligned to benefit from Laing O’Rourke’s pioneering modern methods of construction – schools, colleges, higher education, science & research facilities and high rise residential.
Having herself completed an Imperial College Business School one-year development programme for Laing O’Rourke senior leaders, Clare continues to actively support the Group’s school leavers, graduates and talent development programmes with both content and mentoring – as well as a cross-sector mentoring initiative in which Laing O’Rourke participated with Moving Ahead.
Looking back over her varied and rewarding career, Clare recalls with pride juggling the challenges of being a woman in what was a very male-dominated industry and a working mum – and also the huge learnings, which she loves to share. Clare enjoys spending downtime with friends and family and is an advocate for regular exercise and breaks to maintain her energy levels – in particular practising yoga and Pilates, spinning, hiking and foreign holidays.
